Albuquerque, NM Fire Regulations: Fire Pits & Backyard Fires (2026)
Fire pit rules in Albuquerque, NM, also called outdoor burning, recreational fire, or open flame ordinances, cover fuel types, clearances, and when burning is allowed.
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Albuquerque Fire Code 307.2 / 307.4.1 / 307.6
- Recreational-fire setback
- 25 ft from structure/combustibles
- Bonfire setback
- 50 ft (unless in a barbecue pit); permit required
- Max recreational fuel
- 3 ft diameter x 3 ft high
- Burn ban authority
- Fire Chief, City Ordinance O-2011-018
Summary
Recreational fires are allowed without a permit if kept at least 25 feet from structures with fuel no larger than 3 ft x 3 ft, while bonfires require a permit and must stay 50 feet from any structure (Albuquerque Fire Code 307.2 and 307.4.1). All backyard burning is suspended during a declared burn ban.
307.4.1 Bonfires. A bonfire shall not be conducted within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure or combustible material unless the fire is contained in a barbecue pit. Conditions which could cause a fire to spread within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a structure shall be eliminated prior to ignition. When, in the opinion of the fire code official, it is essential for public safety due to the size, location and nature of the bonfire, the fire code official is authorized to require both fire watch personnel and fire suppression apparatus to standby for duration of the fire and until extinguished.
Full Breakdown
' A bonfire is treated more strictly - it requires a permit (Sec. 1, 'A bonfire shall not be conducted within 50 feet of a structure or combustible material unless the fire is contained in a barbecue pit,' with hazardous spread conditions eliminated before ignition; the fire code official may require fire watch personnel and standby fire apparatus. Portable outdoor fireplaces must be used per manufacturer instructions and not within 15 feet of a structure. 6 (City Ordinance O-2011-018) the Fire Chief may issue a burn ban during high fire danger that prohibits all open burning 'to include bonfires, and recreational fires' citywide and in Open Space, the Rio Grande State Park and Wildland Areas. Always call the Burn/No-Burn Hotline at (505) 768-2876 before lighting.
Violations & Fines
Conducting a recreational fire or bonfire in violation of the setback, attendance or permit requirements, or during a burn ban, is a fire-code violation; the fire code official may order it extinguished and pursue penalties under Chapter 50 of the Fire Code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a backyard fire in Albuquerque?
What is the difference between a recreational fire and a bonfire?
Are backyard fires banned during fire season?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Albuquerque
How Albuquerque compares: Cities with the Strictest Fire Pit Rules·Compare Albuquerque to another location·View the New Mexico fire regulations overview
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